Line-up South Stage Graspop 2025

The massive aggressive music of Municipal Waste still has the same impact as two decades ago when the band first exploded onto the scene with ‘Waste ‘Em All’ (2003). Contrary to such contemporaries and full-blown thrash bands as Havok and Suicidal Angels, the Richmond, Virginia natives’ output is more akin to hardcore, slotting them in the same category as D.R.I. and Suicidal Tendencies - the band members call it speed metal punk. These guys are known for their over-the-top sense of humour and for turning partying into an art form. Looking for a T-shirt? How about the classic Municipal Waste T-shirt featuring The Donald blowing his brains out? Social criticism but always tongue in cheek, just the way we like it. ‘The Last Rager’ EP was the precursor to their most recent full album ‘Electrified Brain’ (2022), an album that slays the old way and is devoid of any hint of subtlety. Last year they released an EP called ‘Tango & Thrash’, a collection of tracks that pays homage to classic action movies. Rounding up all pit hounds!  #GMM25  

Landmvrks are making their GMM debut this year. Hailing from France, the band was founded in 2014 and favours a mix of modern metalcore punctuated with hardcore riffs and earworm choruses. Early on they started writing and recording original material and honing their live chops on the road with the likes of First Blood and More Than Little. Their maiden album ’Hollow’ dropped in 2016 and since then, they’ve added ‘Fantasy’ (2018) and ‘Lost in the Waves’ (2021) to their arsenal; ‘Live at Espace Julien, Marseille’ (2019) catches the French quartet at their bludgeoning live best. Their next LP, ‘The Darkest Place I’ve Ever Been’, is scheduled for a 2025 release. Meanwhile they continue to climb the hierarchical ladder, touring with Knocked Loose, Stick to Your Guns and Miss May I, to name but a few. Landmvrks are masters of experimentation, contrasting hard and soft in a way that lifts them above the crowd while sounding fresh and original. Blast beats, groove, electro ballads and influences of all eras of metalcore are forged into a captivating whole that will have the metal hordes churning as they lay waste to GMM for the second time. #GMM25

Motionless in White is a gothic metalcore band hailing from Scranton, Pennsylvania. Citing a variety of influences ranging from Megadeth and Metallica to Slipkot, Rob Zombie and August Burns Red, they are amongst the most hyped new American metal bands. Their music has been referred to as horror metal and, rather predictably, their anti-religious stance has sparked a fair amount of controversy across the Atlantic. Musically they can best be described as a cross between Marilyn Manson and A Day to Remember: many of their songs sound simultaneously melodic and as brutal as a headbutt, albeit with a special twist. ‘Graveyard Shift’ (2017) and ‘Disguise’ (2019) do what Motionless in White does best: deliver an infectious blend of metalcore, gothic and industrial metal around memorable hooks and choruses. Their most recent outing ‘Scoring the End of the World’ (2022) was hailed by many reviewers as their best album yet. #GMM25

Dream Theater are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their inception this year and are widely considered part of prog metal’s Big Three. Known for their intricate compositions and the technical prowess of its members, they draw on influences including Rush, Yes, Iron Maiden, Pink Floyd and Judas Priest, resulting in a blend of heavy metal and prog rock. The 2010 departure of drummer Mike Portnoy sent a shock wave through the prog scene; his subsequent return in 2023 galvanised the band as they entered the studio to record their 16th album ‘Parasomnia’, which is scheduled to drop in February 2025. A new album, the hits, consummate musicianship and Portnoy’s return: the stars are aligning for one of the most anticipated performances of this edition. #GMM25

Over the years, British heavy metal legends Iron Maiden have been frequent house guests in Dessel. In 2025 they will headline the festival for the 11th time when their ‘Run For Your Lives Tour’ stops off in Dessel to celebrate half a century of Iron Maiden. Brace yourselves for a set list spanning the first nine studio albums, from their eponymous debut to ‘Fear of the Dark’. The ‘Run For Your Lives Tour‘ promises to be the most spectacular Maiden show to date. Scream for me, Dessel! #GMM25

A handful of EPs, two albums and some luck: that is the story of Dead Poet Society in a nutshell. The Los Angeles-based rockers peddle an emotive mix of alternative hard rock and progressive indie music, fuelled by angst and outrage at the world and themselves. Founded in 2013, they self-released their 2015 debut ‘Axiom’ and continued to develop their sound on subsequent releases. Their maiden EP ‘Weapon’ (2013) failed to find an audience in the States but they were noticed by a popular Mexican music blog, giving them the opportunity to tour Mexico alongside a popular Mexican act. The ball started rolling and eventually they started to gain traction Stateside as well. The upward curve didn’t go unnoticed and in 2020 they were signed by the Spinefarm label; their punchy, explosive full-length debut ‘-!-‘ dropped the following year. Their sophomore effort ‘Fission’ (2023) explores themes like addiction, loss and breakup, bringing more thematic depth than their debut. Musically, they maintain their fuzzed-up alt rock style but with a swaggering confidence reminiscent of bands like QoTSA and Royal Blood. #GMM25

Pro-Pain from New York has been a relentless force in the live scene for over 25 years, known for their raw blend of hardcore and metal. Led by Gary Meskil, and joined in 2012 by Belgian drummer Jonas Sanders, the band continues to bring uncompromising intensity to the stage. Since their European debut in 1994—when they already blew the roof off Biebob—they’ve grown into timeless crossover pioneers with a powerful live reputation. #GMM25

With their 2014 ‘Pop Culture’ EP, Knocked Loose gave us a taste of true hardcore, modern style. As it turns out, this was just a welcome teaser for their first studio album ‘Laugh Tracks’ (2016). Credited as a metalcore revival band, Knocked Loose aims to strike a middle ground between hardcore and metalcore, making it hard to pigeonhole the Oldham County, Kentucky natives. Just listen to the Slayer-esque intro to album opener ‘Oblivions Peak’ and you’ll see what we mean. Heavy bass, slow-paced breakdowns, intense lyrics and an unrelenting intensity. Since their second appearance here in 2018 they’ve taken great strides. Their 2019 album ‘A Different Shade of Blue’ took the underground by storm—an unrelenting assault of breakdowns, blast beats and frontman Bryan Garris’s unmistakable shriek, but layered with an eerie atmosphere that sets them apart from their peers. Their latest studio album ‘You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To’ (2024) features a heavier and darker side to the band. Don’t miss out on Knocked Loose or you’ll feel it in your bones. #GMM25

2010s ‘Returners’ and ‘Get What You Give’ (2012) had put The Ghost inside firmly on the map and turned them into a force on the metalcore scene. Extensive touring had earned them a reputation as the younger version of Parkway Drive. So yes, they were cruising along just fine, thank you very much… and then their relentless ascent was abruptly halted when their tour bus collided head-on with a tractor, killing both drivers and leaving several band members in critical condition; drummer Andrew Tkaczyk lost one of this legs. Everyone thought it was game over for the band but after four gruesome years of rehabilitation they made the decision to reform in the same line-up. In 2019 in LA they played their first show since the tragedy and two years ago they hopped the pond again and hit Europe. It was an emotional and inspiring reunion and they come bearing gifts with their new album ‘Searching for Solace’ (2024). #GMM25

Falling in Reverse are the definition of unpredictable but in the best way possible. Led by the ever-controversial and wildly creative Ronnie Radke, this Las Vegas band have evolved from their post-hardcore beginnings into something entirely their own: a genre-smashing fusion of metalcore, hip-hop, pop and arena rock. Back in the day Radke was the lead singer for Escape the Fate but was relieved of frontman duties because he had to serve a two-year sentence. While inside, the idea for Falling in Reverse had time to germinate. Known for viral hits like ‘Popular Monster’ and ‘Voices in My Head’, Falling in Reverse blend razor-sharp lyrics, colossal breakdowns and anthemic hooks with theatrical flair. Their music tackles mental health, addiction, fame and personal demons, often with biting self-awareness. Love them or hate them, Falling in Reverse don’t play it safe, with an amalgam of rap, metal, extremely catchy melodies and outside-the-box collaborations. If you love bold, emotional and genre-busting rock then Falling in Reverse will scratch your itch. #GMM25

Formed in 1995 in Des Moines, Slipknot are not just known for their iconic masks but also for their unique and unrivalled sound. Their eponymous debut from 1999 revolutionised the rock and metal world. This album full of raw emotions, intense energy and aggressive riffs is considered a genre milestone and kickstarted Slipknot’s ascent to global fame. Here comes the pain! #GMM25

Oomph! are considered one of the pioneers of the Neue Deutsche Härte movement and were a welcome source of inspiration for the likes of Rammstein, Megaherz and Eisbrecher. The band’s second album ‘Sperm’ (1994) is widely viewed as one of the first records of the NDH movement. Contrary to most of their peers, Oomph! use both German and English lyrics. Founded in 1989, this German metal combo’s style ranges from industrial, gothic, techno, metal and alternative rock to electronica. As so often happens with pioneers, Oomph! never enjoyed the commercial success of the bands they inspired although 1999’s ‘Plastik’ did give the band a wider appeal. In 2023, longtime singer Dero Goi was replaced with Daniel ‘Der Schulz’ Schulz. His first studio contribution can be heard on the band’s most recent output, ‘Richter und Henker’ (2023). #GMM25

In 2018 and 2019 the German Neue Deutsche Härte band Eisbrecher took the Graspop festival arena by storm. By then the duo Alexx Wesselsky/Noel Pix (both ex-Megaherz) had built a long track record together. Formed in 2002, their eponymous debut ‘Eisbrecher’ pigeonholed them as an EBM (electronic body music) band due to the generous use of electronica but on later records they switched to a more metal-oriented approach. As a result, the EBM label was replaced with that of an industrial metal band. Born entertainer and vocalist Alexx Wesselsky has a powerful, resonating voice that suits Eisbrecher’s intelligent mix of various musical styles, although industrial influences still hold sway. While NDH pioneers Oomph! may have been an inspiration, Eisbrecher are more adventurous when it comes to incorporating different styles of music into their work. Their acclaimed album ‘Schock’ (2015) is a good case in point, with catchy sing-along choruses and influences ranging from electronica to gothic, techno and disco. Their most recent production ‘Kaltfront’ dropped earlier this year and it’s one of their best yet, a hard-hitting slab with standout vocals and insightful comments on the precarious political situation in the world today. #GMM25

When Max Cavalera formed Soulfly shortly after leaving Sepultura, the newly minted thrash/groove metal band quickly became a force to be reckoned with. Their self-titled debut dropped in 1998 and a dozen studio albums later, the energetic frontman has moulded Soulfly into a relentless machine driven by talented musicians. Max’s Brazilian roots are always evident, both in a musical and lyrical sense. Taking into account the output of Cavalera Conspiracy, the side project that reunited Max with his younger brother and drummer Igor in 2006, it’s safe to say Max is one of the more prolific writers on the metal scene. The charismatic pater familias likes to bring his relatives on tour and the vibrant Cavalera clan are popular guests backstage. It’s all about the passion for music, family and the joy of playing, even more so since Max’s son Zyon joined the line-up in 2012 as Soulfly’s new battering ram. Their latest effort to date is 2022’s ‘Totem’ but new work will be coming our way soon, as are the Cavalera family! #GMM25

The Belgian music scene continues to make waves internationally, and Brutus is a prime example of that. For over ten years, this trio has been bridging the gaps between post-metal, punk, and shoegaze with an unmatched intensity that truly comes to life on stage. After a stunning performance in the Metal Dome last year, the band returns to GMM to shake up the festival grounds once again—this time on our South Stage. With their latest album, Unison Life (2022), they have proven themselves to be among the elite of the Belgian music scene. Brace yourself for a storm of emotion, energy, and sheer power—Brutus comes, sees, and conquers. (#GMM25)

There’s nothing like true love. Guitarist Mike Stringer found his in vocalist Courtney LaPlante, his bandmate in Iwresteledabearonce. However, artistically the couple and the rest of the band were on different wavelengths, prompting the Canadian couple to part ways with their bandmates and set up their own project. Established in 2017, Spiritbox released three EPs in short succession and before they knew it the world was their oyster, especially following the release of their full-length debut ‘Eternal Blue’ (2021). The music press unanimously declared Spiritbox have a great future ahead of them and we couldn’t agree more. Musically they are one of those bands that are extremely hard to pigeonhole with influences ranging from metalcore, alternative metal, prog metal and nu-metal to post-metal. In 2022 on their GMM debut, they owned the Jupiler Stage and singer Courtney’s heavily sprained ankle didn’t prevent them from sending the crowd into a collective delirium. They came back for seconds the following year and this time around they will introduce their new long player ‘Tsunami Sea’, which his set for a March 2025 release. #GMM25

On Saturday 21 June 2025, legendary American industrial rockers Nine Inch Nails will make their first GMM appearance. Helmed by mastermind Trent Reznor, the band has been pushing the boundaries of rock, electronica and industrial ever since its inception in 1988. With trailblazing albums such as ‘The Downward Spiral’ and ‘With Teeth’ and iconic tracks like ‘Closer’, ‘Hurt’ and  ‘Head Like a Hole’, Nine Inch Nails have left an indelible mark on the industrial and alternative rock scene. Their live shows are renowned for their blend of raw energy and hypnotic visuals so this is a must-see show at #GMM25! #GMM25

Ugly Kid Joe named the band to poke fun at hair metal group Pretty Boy Floyd, rising to fame in the mid-nineties with an infectious brand of hard rock that blended classic stadium rock, glam metal and heavy metal with a pinch of funk and a satirical attitude. Hit singles ‘Everything about You’ and ‘Cats in the Cradle’ paved the way and one of their finest moments in Europe came in 1995 when they released ‘Menace to Sobriety’ and opened for Bon Jovi and Van Halen on the European leg of their world tour. Singer and figurehead Whitfield Crane pulled the plug in 1997 to pursue other ambitions but in 2010, Crane and guitarist Klaus Eichstadt resurrected the band in the successful line-up of the 1994-1997 period. Late 2015 they released their first new CD in nearly two decades with ‘Uglier than They Used ta Be’ and their last contribution to date is 2022’s ‘Rad Wings of Destiny’, proving they still know how to write mean hard rock tracks but without taking themselves too seriously, of course. #GMM25

Founded in 1974, this Swiss hard rock/heavy metal outfit changed their musical direction after attending an AC/DC concert. Later, in the mid-80s, they took a more commercial approach. The 1979 addition of vocalist Marc Storace, who sounded eerily like Bon Scott, heralded the start of a very successful period for the band, especially in North America. Albums such as ‘Metal Rendez-Vous’ (1980) and ‘One Vice at a Time’ (1982) are highlights in the band’s discography. Throughout the 90s Krokus kept recording new material but numerous personnel changes affected their output and their popularity waned due to the advent of grunge. Then in 2007 the most successful line-up got back together (with the exception of co-founder Tommy Kiefer, who died in 1986) and rekindled the fire. Their last albums to date, ‘Dirty Dynamite’ (2013) and ‘Big Rocks’ (2017), pack an even bigger punch than usual. When they played GMM2019 they were “on their farewell tour” but here they are, refreshed and ready to rock your balls off. Fans of low-down and dirty AC/DC-style rock will love Krokus. #GMM25

Savatage, formed in 1978, was an American heavy metal band known for blending symphonic metal, progressive rock and classical elements. Their sound evolved over time, starting with traditional heavy metal in ‘Sirens’ (1983) and reaching orchestral and even operatic heights with albums like ‘Gutter Ballet’ (1989) and ‘Streets’ (1991), which showcased intricate compositions and narrative-driven lyrics. Lyrically they focused on themes of addiction, redemption and societal struggles. The band faced significant tragedies, most notably the death of guitarist Criss Oliva in 1993, which deeply affected their trajectory. Subsequent albums like ‘Edge of Thorns’ (1993) and ‘Poets and Madmen’ (2001) failed to achieve mainstream success. Meanwhile, their side project, Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO), became a massive commercial hit, with its symphonic rock Christmas albums and elaborate tours. TSO's popularity far outpaced Savatage, though the latter's pioneering contributions to metal remain influential, earning them a lasting legacy within the genre. The band had been retired due to Jon’s major health issues but now they are back with a reboot. Jon remains active in the background, Zak is back on board and the line-up is rounded out by guitarists Al Pitrelli and Chris Caffery, bassist Johnny Lee Middleton plus drummer Jeff Plate. #GMM25

For over five decades Judas Priest have been one of the flagbearers of heavy metal. In the wake of their triumphant gig at last year’s festival, the beast that is Priest is returning for a ninth raid on Dessel. Last year Halford & Co unleashed their nineteenth studio album ‘Invincible Shield’ and this year marks the 35th anniversary of the landmark ‘Painkiller’ album. Brace yourselves for a set list filled to the brim with timeless bangers such as ‘Turbo Lover’, ‘Breaking the Law’ and ‘Living After Midnight’, supplemented with new tracks and cuts off the mythical ‘Painkiller’ album! #GMM25